HC Deb 13 June 1939 vol 348 cc1088-9
37. Sir John Wardlaw-Milne

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can make any statement with regard to the precise form in which assistance which will be given to the British Mercantile Marine, and if not, when he expects to be able to make an announcement?

38 and 39. Mr. Storey

asked the President of the Board of Trade (I) whether he can now say when definite proposals will be announced in connection with the assistance to be given for shipbuilding;

(2) whether he can now say when it is proposed to introduce legislation to give effect to the Government's proposals with regard to assistance for merchant ship ping?

40. Mr. David Adams

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the average rates of freight in the deep-sea and near trades for the first five months of this year were below those of the standard year of 1929, whilst at the same time working costs have risen sharply, and that at present no financial assistance is available towards the costs of current voyages; and when the necessary legislation in connection with the proposed shipping subsidy will be introduced?

Mr. Stanley

The preparation of the schemes of assistance proposed in my statement of 28th March is nearly completed, and the Bill will be submitted to Parliament as soon as possible.

Mr. Gallacher

Can the Minister say when the Government intend to give assistance to old age pensioners?